Question

what is the first step in gene cloning?
a placing the gene of interest into a vector.
b placing a plasmid into a vector.
c placing the gene of interest into a host cell.
d placing a plasmid into a host cell.

Explanation:

Gene cloning involves several steps. The first step is to isolate and place the gene of interest into a vector (like a plasmid). Option a describes this. Option b is incorrect as we place the gene, not a plasmid, into a vector initially. Option c is later (introducing to host cell), and option d is also a later step (after vector has the gene).

Answer:

a. Placing the gene of interest into a vector.